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Cloths On the altar at Mass, you’ll see a number of different cloths used. Each of these has a specific name and purpose. All of the different cloths used during Mass are considered sacred items, because they may come in contact with the Body and Blood of Christ. The top of the altar is covered with a large linen tablecloth. This is simply called the altar cloth. Tantamount to a place mat is the corporal. The corporal is a square of absorbent white linen that is placed under the chalice, the paten and the ciborium. This is used so that any particles of the host or drops of wine that fall on it can be collected. The name comes from the Latin corpus, which means “body.” At Masses where the Precious Blood is offered, each minister will wipe the brim of the chalice after each use. The small linen cloth used is called a purificator. The purificator is also used to clean the chalices and ciboria after Communion. of the gifts. The small bowl or basin (though not a cloth) used 31 When the chalice is not in use, it is covered with a chalice veil. Finally, at every Mass the priest washes his hands at the preparation to catch the water is called a lavabo (luh-VAH-boh). This word comes from the Latin verb meaning “I shall wash.” Notes


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